Is it February yet? My two least favorite months, in order, are 1. April and 2. The second half of January. Maybe it’s the rain talking for me, or the fact that I don’t want to take down my Christmas tree because I’m feeling especially cottage core at the moment, but I’m feeling lost in time. Never fear: I found a few ways this week to mark, nay, enjoy the passage of time.

It’s a long weekend for many here in the United States. Whether that means that you have off from work, or simply don’t get the mail delivered that day, I encourage you to think about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King’s words are just as relevant now as they were then, because the same injustices run rampant in our society in 2023 as they did in the 1960s.

Happy New Year, my beautiful friends. You made it; it’s 2023. You may be feeling more “new year, new deductible” than everyone’s favorite “new year, new me.” Fear not, I am not here to encourage you to be someone new. You’re already great! Instead, I have suggestions for easy pasta upgrades, a great movie that’s now streaming, and attainable goals.

Next week is the Winter Solstice, and I can feel it. It will be the longest night of the year. I’m always encouraged by the idea that after that, the nights will be shorter and the daylight hours will get longer. I’m thinking a lot about the things that bring me comfort during long nights – and between some delicious snacks, a score from my childhood memories, and some creativity, I’ve got some suggestions to share.